Targeting chromatin dysregulation in organ fibrosis

Document Type

Article

Abstract

Fibrosis leads to destruction of organ architecture accompanied by chronic inflammation and loss of function. Fibrosis affects nearly every organ in the body and accounts for ∼45% of total deaths worldwide. Over the past decade, tremendous progress has been made in understanding the basic mechanisms leading to organ fibrosis. However, we are limited with therapeutic options and there is a significant need to develop highly effective anti-fibrotic therapies. Recent advances in sequencing technologies have advanced the burgeoning field of epigenetics towards molecular understanding at a higher resolution. Here we provide a comprehensive review of the recent advances in chromatin regulatory processes, specifically DNA methylation, post-translational modification of histones, and chromatin remodeling complexes in kidney, liver and lung fibrosis. Although this research field is young, we discuss new strategies for potential therapeutic interventions for treating organ fibrosis.

Keywords

Chromatin remodeling, DNA methylation, Epigenetics, Extracellular matrix, Fibrosis, Histone modifications

Medical Subject Headings

Chromatin; DNA Methylation; Epigenesis, Genetic; Fibrosis; Histones (metabolism); Humans; Protein Processing, Post-Translational

Publication Date

2-1-2021

Publication Title

Cytokine & growth factor reviews

E-ISSN

1879-0305

Volume

57

First Page

64

Last Page

72

PubMed ID

32900600

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1016/j.cytogfr.2020.08.004

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